Planning your Bali holiday and wondering when to go? You’re not alone. One of the most common questions travelers ask is, “What’s the best time to visit Bali?”
Spoiler alert: there’s never truly a bad time to visit Bali—but depending on your travel style, budget, and what you want to experience, some months might be a better fit than others.
Whether you’re chasing dry season beach days, epic surf, spiritual serenity, or off-season bargains, this guide breaks down what to expect throughout the year on the Island of the Gods.
Choosing the Best Time to Visit Bali
Choosing the best time to visit Bali depends on what you want out of your trip. Bali isn’t a one-size-fits-all island, it’s more like a choose-your-own adventure book.
If you’re all about endless sunshine, beach parties, and perfect tan lines, then aim for dry season, especially between May and September. This is peak Bali – great for surfers, adventurers, and anyone who enjoys a cocktail during sunset.
If you prefer fewer crowds, and a soft side of Bali, then rainy season might actually be the best time to visit Bali for you. November through March offers lush landscapes, peaceful temples, and cheaper hotel rates. This time is ideal for anyone looking for a quiet recharge.
Families might want to stick to school holiday periods (July or August), but just be ready to share paradise with lots of new friends. Solo travelers and couples often love shoulder seasons like April, May, September, and October — when the weather is still great but the crowds have thinned.
The bottom line is, the best time to visit Bali isn’t just about the calendar — it’s about your style, your budget, and your version of paradise. Bonus: even a “bad” day in Bali is still pretty spectacular.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re flexible with your travel dates, keep an eye on Bali’s big cultural events like Nyepi (March/April) or Galungan (happens twice a year). Experiencing Bali during a major festival is like unlocking a secret bonus level — fewer tourists know about it, and the cultural energy is unforgettable.
Dry Season in Bali
When people brainstorm about the best time to visit Bali, they’re usually picturing the dry season. Running from April to October, this is Bali at its beachy, sun-soaked best.
Days are reliably warm and dry, humidity is lower, and the ocean is mostly calm — basically, it’s postcard-perfect Bali on demand.
This is the best time to visit Bali for outdoor adventures: think diving in crystal-clear waters, hiking up Mount Batur for sunrise without slip-sliding in mud, or chilling at a beach club without racing a thunderstorm.
⚠️ Heads-up: with great weather comes great crowds. July and August, in particular, are packed with international tourists and Australian families escaping winter. Book your hotels early, and maybe practice your best “zen in traffic” techniques just in case.
Rainy Season in Bali
Bali’s rainy season (November to March) gets a bad rap, but if you know what you’re signing up for, it can actually be one of the best times to visit Bali.
Sure, you’ll get rain (often dramatic afternoon downpours), but they’re usually quick, warm showers, not days of endless gloom. Between rains, the sun still shines, and the rice fields turn into the beautiful green that makes your Instagram followers suspicious you’re using filters.
Also, Bali’s cultural side shines brighter during the wet season. Ceremonies like Galungan, Kuningan, and the serene Nyepi Day (the Balinese New Year) often fall during these months, giving you a rare glimpse into the island’s spiritual soul.
Temperatures in Bali
Bali keeps it tropical all year, which basically means you’re signing up for warm, beach-friendly weather no matter when you visit. Temperatures hover between 26°C and 31°C (around 79°F to 88°F) pretty much year-round. There’s no “cold season” here—only varying degrees of “I’m going to need another Bintang.”
During the dry season (May to October), the air feels less heavy, breezes pick up (especially in coastal areas like Sanur and Uluwatu), and outdoor adventures feel much more comfortable.
During the rainy season (November to March), humidity skyrockets, making the same temperatures feel a lot hotter and stickier — think instant-sauna levels if you’re trekking or walking around midday.
Here’s a quick feel of the temperature trend through the year:
- January–March: Hot, humid, and sticky with lots of rain.
- April–June: Warm, drier, and breezy — ideal for exploring.
- July–August: Peak sunshine with slightly cooler evenings (perfect bonfire weather).
- September–October: Still dry, slightly more humid as the wet season approaches.
- November–December: Hot, humid, and dramatic with sudden downpours.
No matter the month, pack light clothes, plenty of sunscreen, and a realistic expectation that “frizzy hair, don’t care” is basically the holiday motto.
January: Bali Weather and Travel Tips
Bali kicks off the year with a tropical splash. Bali in January is peak rainy season, so don’t forget your umbrella—or at least some patience.
Expect dramatic afternoon downpours that turn roads into rivers and rice paddies into something straight out of National Geographic.
But here’s the thing: the rain doesn’t last all day, and when it’s not raining, it’s warm, lush, and gloriously green. If you’re wondering if January is the best time to visit Bali, it depends—if you like solitude and lush vibes, it just might be.
- 🌡️ Average Temperatures: 30°C (86°F)
- 👍 Pros: Jungle-rich landscapes, low crowds, discounted accommodation.
- 👎 Cons: Flood-prone roads, limited visibility for divers.
- ⭐ Best for: Yoga junkies, honeymooners dodging the herd, indoor spa warriors.
February: Visiting Bali in February
The rain still lingers, but Bali in February turns it into a love story. Think quiet candlelit dinners while thunder rumbles in the background, or spa days while the skies do their thing outside.
With Valentine’s Day in the mix, there’s a romantic energy in the air—even if the humidity could steam a mirror. Still not the best time to visit Bali for sun chasers—but a gem for lovers of peace and puddles.
- 🌡️ Average Temperatures: 30°C (86°F)
- 👍 Pros: Secluded beaches, discounted rates, wellness retreats in full swing.
- 👎 Cons: High humidity, slippery hikes, and muddy paths.
- ⭐ Best for: Couples, slow-travel lovers, digital detoxers.
March: Bali Travel During Nyepi and Rain
Rainy season slows down, but the cultural intensity ramps up. Bali in March is often when Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence, happens—a powerful spiritual event where the entire island goes quiet for 24 hours.
On Nyepi Day, no flights, less traffic, no Wi-Fi (depending on the location). For culture-seekers and introspective souls, this might just be your best time to visit Bali.
March is also the most likely month of Ramadan, when many of the Javanese residences in Bali shut down businesses and head back home to their families in Java.
- 🌡️ Average Temperatures: 31°C (88°F)
- 👍 Pros: Deep cultural experiences, fewer tourists, shoulder season prices.
- 👎 Cons: Nyepi shuts everything down (but that’s the magic).
- ⭐ Best for: Mindful travelers, culture buffs, those craving a spiritual reset.
April: Start of Dry Season in Bali
Bali in April marks the start of the sweet spot. The sun reclaims its throne, the rains taper off, and Bali starts humming with life again.
It’s not quite high season yet, so you get dry-season benefits without the dry-season crowds. If you’re looking for one of the best times to visit Bali, this is when the island begins to truly shine.
- 🌡️ Average Temperatures: 31°C (88°F)
- 👍 Pros: Clear skies, blossoming beaches, better conditions for diving and hiking.
- 👎 Cons: Occasional lingering showers.
- ⭐ Best for: Nature lovers, sun-seekers, and anyone after that perfect weather-to-crowd ratio.
May: Ideal Weather and Surf Season
Bali in May is the Goldilocks of travel months. It’s dry, it’s sunny, it’s breezy—and yet the island still hasn’t reached full tourist capacity.
The west coast surf scene kicks off, Bali exotic fruits are abundant, and sunsets start serving up serious drama. For many tourists, this is hands-down the best time to visit Bali.
- 🌡️ Average Temperatures: 30°C (86°F)
- 👍 Pros: Ideal beach and surf conditions, photogenic landscapes, seasonal produce galore.
- 👎 Cons: Popular spots start filling up—book ahead.
- ⭐ Best for: First-timers, Instagrammers, balance-seekers.
June: Great Time for Beaches
Dry season is in full swing by June, but without the July chaos. Expect golden days in June, cultural buzz from temple festivals, and evening breezes that feel like Bali giving you a hug.
It’s also the sweet spot for diving, trekking Mount Batur, and exploring without heat exhaustion. For many, Bali in June secretly ranks among the best times to visit Bali—before the high-season frenzy kicks in.
- 🌡️ Average Temperatures: 29°C (84°F)
- 👍 Pros: Excellent weather, calm seas, cultural festivals light up the calendar.
- 👎 Cons: Prices and tourist numbers begin to rise.
- ⭐ Best for: Active travelers, early honeymooners, culture enthusiasts.
July: High Season in Bali
Welcome to the Bali of travel brochures. Bali in July is bright, busy, and bursting with beach life. The island fills with families, Aussies ditching their winter, and everyone chasing that perfect Instagram shot.
Prices are high, but so is the energy. If you want to see Bali at full throttle, this is your month.
- 🌡️ Average Temperatures: 28°C (82°F)
- 👍 Pros: Spectacular weather, every activity is available, nightlife is buzzing.
- 👎 Cons: High prices, packed hotspots, longer wait times.
- ⭐ Best for: Social butterflies, party people, and content creators with ring lights in their luggage.
August: Peak Tourist Season
Bali in August is an encore. Still dry, still sunny, and still pulsing with people. Indonesian Independence Day celebrations (August 17th) bring color and parades to local villages.
Beach clubs overflow, and sunset sessions become a full-blown event. August is s a contender for the best time to visit Bali, if you’re all about peak energy.
- 🌡️ Average Temperatures: 28°C (82°F)
- 👍 Pros: World-class surf, national celebrations, vibrant beach scene.
- 👎 Cons: High prices, traffic congestion, overbooked everything.
- ⭐ Best for: Extroverts, event-hoppers, families chasing guaranteed sun.
September – Best Value Month to Visit Bali
Bali in September is the unsung hero. The weather is still fantastic, but the crowd thins out. Prices start to drop, restaurants are easier to book, and you can finally get that photo at Tegalalang without a hundred selfie sticks.
- 🌡️ Average Temperatures: 28°C (82°F)
- 👍 Pros: Great weather, quieter attractions, better deals on tours and stays.
- 👎 Cons: Potential haze from nearby agricultural burning (some years).
- ⭐ Best for: Couples, laid-back explorers, and anyone who wants peak Bali without the peak chaos.
October: Shoulder Season Weather
Bali in October is transitional, but still totally travel-worthy. The rains start teasing in short bursts, but most days are still clear and adventure-friendly. It’s harvest time, too, which means vibrant rice fields and great local produce.
- 🌡️ Average Temperatures: 30°C (86°F)
- 👍 Pros: Fewer tourists, dramatic skies, fresh cuisine.
- 👎 Cons: Some showers may interrupt outdoor plans.
- ⭐ Best for: Off-season adventurers, foodies, slow travelers embracing the in-between.
November: Early Wet Season Travel
Welcome back to wet season—but softly. Bali in November still sees dry patches, especially in southern Bali.
It’s calm, budget-friendly, and perfect for long-stayers or those who prefer their Bali chilled and a little introspective. Not the classic best time to visit Bali, but a sleeper hit for the right kind of traveler.
- 🌡️ Average Temperatures: 31°C (88°F)
- 👍 Pros: Lower prices, fewer crowds, peaceful local vibes.
- 👎 Cons: Rain is more frequent, certain tours may pause.
- ⭐ Best for: Long-term travelers, digital nomads, wellness seekers.
December: Christmas Holidays & Rainy Season
December in Bali is a tale of two halves. The beginning of the month is humid and manageable. The second half? Tropical mayhem and holiday madness. Christmas and New Year bring big crowds and bigger price tags. But if you’re here to party, Bali delivers.
- 🌡️ Average Temperatures:
- 👍 Pros: Festive spirit, big events, lush green landscapes.
- 👎 Cons: Heavy rain, high-season prices, airport lines that stretch into next week.
- ⭐ Best for: Party lovers, winter escapees, and groups celebrating something (anything, really).
Best Time to Visit Bali for Activities
Surfing
If you dream of riding Bali’s legendary waves, the best time to visit Bali for surfing is between May and September. During the dry season, the west coast beaches like Canggu, Uluwatu, and Padang Padang light up with consistent swells and offshore winds. Whether you’re a beginner testing out your first board or a seasoned shredder chasing barrels, Bali’s surf scene is pure magic during these months.
- Best Time: May to September (Dry Season)
- Why: The west coast is at its prime during the dry season, with consistent waves perfect for surfers of all levels.
Diving & Snorkeling
Bali’s underwater world is just as breathtaking as its beaches — and for the clearest, most vibrant diving and snorkeling, the best time to visit Bali is between April and October. Sites like Nusa Penida, Amed, and Menjangan Island offer stunning coral reefs, shipwrecks, and manta rays. With minimal rain and better water visibility, it’s prime time for slipping into your fins and getting face-to-face with Nemo.
- Best Time: April to October
- Why: Clearer waters and optimal visibility make this period the best for underwater exploration around Bali’s reefs.
Hiking & Trekking
Ready to swap beach sandals for hiking boots? The dry season (April to October) is ideal for trekking adventures in Bali. Treks like the Mount Batur Sunrise Trek are safest when the paths are dry and the skies are clear. There’s nothing quite like catching a sunrise above the clouds — just don’t forget to pack a jacket; it can get surprisingly chilly at the top!
- Best Time: April to October (Dry Season)
- Why: Trails are easier to navigate with less rain, and the weather is more comfortable for a hike up volcanoes like Mount Batur.
Cultural Activities
If you’re seeking a soul-stirring experience, time your trip around March for Nyepi, the Balinese New Year, or April for Galungan. The lead-up is full of vibrant processions and parades. This is the best time to visit Bali to dive deep into the culture.
- Best Time: March – April (Nyepi, Galungan, and Kuningan)
- Why: Nyepi is a time for spiritual reflection and unique cultural experiences, with 24 hours of island-wide silence.
Beach, Beach Clubs, & Sunbathing
For pure, uninterrupted beach vibes, the best time to visit Bali is dry season (May to October) wins the crown. Think clear blue skies, gentle breezes, and golden sunsets that belong on a postcard. Whether you’re lounging in Seminyak, snorkeling off Sanur, or sipping coconuts in Uluwatu, this is the season for perfect tan lines and zero regrets.
- Best Time: May to October (Dry Season)
- Why: Sunshine, low humidity, and clear skies create perfect beach conditions for relaxing and sunbathing.
Wildlife & Nature
Animal lovers and nature explorers can enjoy the island any time of the year, but drier trails make it easier to visit sanctuaries like the Ubud Monkey Forest, Bali Bird Park, or West Bali National Park without slipping around in the mud. Plus, the sunny weather brings out Bali’s wildlife in full, vibrant force — from cheeky monkeys to technicolor birds.
- Best Time: April to October (Dry Season)
- Why: Dry weather makes it easier to explore Bali’s rich wildlife, from monkeys in Ubud’s Sacred Monkey Forest to birdwatching in national parks.
Waterfalls
If chasing waterfalls is on your Bali bucket list, the best time to visit Bali is during or just after the rainy season — think December through March. The downpours swell Bali’s best waterfalls like Tegenungan, Sekumpul, and Nungnung into full, roaring glory. Sure, you might get a little muddy on the trails, but the misty, thunderous rewards are 100% worth it.
- Best Time: December to March
- Why: Rainy season fills the waterfalls to dramatic, roaring perfection—nature’s ultimate power show.
Parties, Bars, & Nightclubs
If you’re chasing Bali’s famous nightlife, July and August are your golden months. The dry season brings loads of party lovers, DJ events, and beach club madness to places like Canggu, Seminyak, and Uluwatu. Expect packed dance floors, sunset cocktails that turn into sunrise shots, and enough beach parties to make your head spin — in the best way possible.
- Best Time: July and August
- Why: Bali’s nightlife is at its wildest during peak dry season when beach clubs, DJs, and festivals take over.
When is the Best Time to Visit Bali?
At the end of the day, the best time to visit Bali comes down to what you’re chasing — golden beaches, cultural deep-dives, crowd-free adventures, or maybe just a fresh coconut and a hammock.
For perfect weather and buzzing energy, the dry season is your best bet. If you’re after quiet moments, lush landscapes, and lower prices, don’t be afraid of a little rain. Bali doesn’t really do “bad seasons” — just different flavors of paradise.
Pick the one that fits your style, and you honestly can’t go wrong.
Useful Resources for Visiting Bali
FAQs about the Best Time to Visit Bali
What is the best month to go to Bali?
Most travelers (and local expats who know what’s up) agree that May, June, and September are the sweet spot. These months offer perfect beach weather, fewer crowds compared to July-August, and better prices on hotels and tours.
What is the rainy season in Bali?
Bali’s rainy season runs from November to March. Expect warm, humid days with tropical showers, usually in the late afternoons. Think dramatic skies, lush landscapes, and a legit excuse to book that extra spa day. For many tourists, this is the best time to visit Bali.
What is the most expensive month in Bali?
December, hands down — especially the second half leading up to Christmas and New Year. Flights, hotels, and some activities might cost more.
What is the rainiest month in Bali?
January usually takes the crown for the heaviest rain. Pack a lightweight rain jacket and your “go with the flow” attitude — because rain or shine, Bali still delivers the magic.
What is the cheapest time to visit Bali?
Traveling during the rainy season, particularly from January to March, often yields the lowest prices on flights and accommodations. This is the best time to visit Bali if you’re on a tighter budget.
What is Bali’s peak season?
Bali’s peak season hits during the July–August school holidays and again around Christmas and New Year. Expect packed beaches, busy temples, and accommodation prices that aren’t exactly shy.
When is the best time for surfing in Bali?
If you’re chasing those dream waves, the dry season (April to October) is the best time to visit Bali for surfers — especially on Bali’s west coast. This is when the swell, offshore winds, and endless barrels make surfers look like Instagram legends.
When is the best time for diving in Bali?
The best time to visit Bali for diving is usually May to November offers optimal diving conditions with clear waters and good visibility.
When should I avoid Bali?
If you absolutely hate the rain, then avoid December to February.
More Bali Travel Tips
First Time in Bali? Tips, Mistakes to Avoid & Must-Know Advice
Bali Power Outage Guide: What Tourists Need to Know
How to Get an International Driving Permit for Bali
Bali Packing List: What to Pack for Bali (and What to Leave Behind)
Bali Luggage Storage Guide: 25 Best Self Storage in Bali
Tipping in Bali: When and How Much to tip in 2025
Neil
I’ve been in Bali for so long I’ve grown roots (literally and metaphorically). For the past 10 years, I’ve experienced Bali from every angle. I’ve explored the temples, I’ve tried all the food, and I’m proudly fluent in the Indonesian language. I hope our website helps you get an authentic experience for your holiday in Bali, whether you’re here to enjoy the finer things in life, or to learn more about Bali’s rich culture.
My friends who visited Bali last year told me that July-August is too crowded. Is this normal every year? You mentioned about summer holidays which makes sense but just wondering if there’s a workaround because this is my only time off.
Cheers
Hi Moe,
The summer holidays is always everyones favorite time to visit Bali because…it’s when they can get some time off work – especially with the kids being off school.
The solution to the crowds depends entire on what you prefer to do during your Bali holiday. My suggestion is to skip hotspots like Canggu, Ubud, and Seminyak. And venture out into the less popular areas.
While areas like Lovina, Amed, and Munduk may be way further out, you’ll be avoiding the crowds regardless of what time of year you visit Bali.
I suggest reading my post on Is Bali Overcrowded for some better insights.
Safe travels,
Neil
As someone who has lived in Bali since 2001.Even though we have temperatures in the low 30’s.. because we are close to the equator, it feels like about 40.By the way, l moved from Canggu to Singaraja in 2021, no tourists, great empty beaches and waterfalls 10 minutes away.
Hi Russell,
Absolutely! Certain times of the year can be brutally hot.
By the way, Canggu to Singaraja is a massive leap. How are you liking it? Singaraja-Lovina area seems like prime retirement.
Hope the new airport plans won’t force you out! 😅
Safe travels,
Neil
Thanks Neil, yes years ago l would not have made that move But l lived just up the street from where Finn’s Beach club is now.In 2001-2012 you would be almost alone on that beach..not anymore.We are between Singaraja and Lovina.I swim daily at a beach alone.The airport.. don’t get me started.I was a supervisor at an International airport before. Can’t see anyone bidding for slots at an airport in North Bali, domestic maybe.. international no way.
hi guys, planning a trip to bali for oct do you think it’s still good beach weather then? A bit worried about the rainy season creeping in early.
Hi Jason,
October in Bali is actually a pretty great time for the beach. It’s technically the end of the dry season, so you can still expect plenty of sun, especially in the first half of the month. The rainy season usually doesn’t kick in until late October or November, and even then the showers tend to be short and happen in the late afternoon or evening.
If you’re more of a beach guy, you’ll still find great beach weather in October. Just pack a light rain jacket in case of the random downpour. It’s also a bonus that October is less crowded than peak months like July and August, so you’ll have more space to enjoy Bali.
See you in a few months!
Michael